one of the most formidable defenders in the NBA. His stellar play has led the Raptors to an NBA-best 30-12 record. Usually, the MVP goes to the best player on the best team. At the moment, Leonard is right on track to receive the big prize.
Are the Raptors significantly better or is it an illusion?
Leonard’s play has been extraordinary so far, and clearly, the Raptors are a better team with him on the roster. The argument that may work against him for MVP consideration is the improvement of the Raptors as a whole from last season. Under former coach Dwane Casey, the Raptors had a record of 27-10 at this point last season.
While the Raptors do look significantly better under the coaching of Nick Nurse, the minuscule difference in team performance between last season and this season may deter voters from handing Leonard the MVP trophy. Even though Harden and Leonard deserve strong consideration for the MVP honor, the real MVP of the NBA so far is Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Current favorite for the NBA MVP Award is Giannis Antetokounmpo
Unlike the Raptors, the Milwaukee Bucks are the most improved team in the NBA. Last season, the Bucks had a 21-18 record at this point. Currently, the Bucks are 2nd in the Eastern Conference with a surprising 27-11 record. Also, the Bucks lead the league in point differential (+9.5). That is a far cry from last season where the Bucks boasted a point differential of -0.3. Many may argue the coaching genius of Mike Budenholzer has led to the Bucks rapid improvement, but the improved play of Antetokounmpo has also played a vital role in the Bucks’ success.
Currently, Antetokounmpo is one of the premier forwards in the NBA. He’s averaging 26.5 points per game, and he’s averaging career-highs in rebounds per game (12.6), assists per game (6.1), field goal percentage (59%), and effective field goal percentage (60.2%). In addition to these statistical career-highs, Antetokounmpo is 2nd in the NBA in PER (29.3). Undoubtedly, Antetokounmpo has been playing out of his mind since the start of the season.
Mike Budenholzer has aided in the Bucks, and Antetokounmpo’s, success
What has aided Antetokounmpo’s rise in production is the style of play Budenholzer has implemented. Before Budenholzer got the job as head coach, under former coaches Jason Kidd and Joe Prunty, the Bucks played tough defense and operated more in the half-court. Budenholzer scrapped those ideas and implemented a fast-paced offensive system which encouraged the Bucks players to push the pace.
With Antetokounmpo’s skill set and athleticism, he flourishes more in an up-tempo style of offense. It also helps that the front office has surrounded Antetokounmpo with shooters, which gives him space to operate on the fast break and in the paint. Budenholzer’s genius combined with Antetokounmpo’s competitiveness has led to the Bucks becoming one of the favorites to win the NBA title.
Right now, Harden, Leonard, and Antetokounmpo all deserve consideration for the MVP Award, but statistically speaking, it’s clear the current NBA MVP resides in Milwaukee.
Photo Credit
James Anderson via Flickr
Written by Ryan Gayle
